Berries as a Treatment for Obesity-Induced Inflammation: Evidence from Preclinical Models

Abstract

Inflammation that accompanies obesity is associated with the infiltration of metabolically active tissues by inflammatory immune cells. This propagates a chronic low-grade inflammation associated with increased signaling of common inflammatory pathways such as NF-κB and Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4). Obesity-associated inflammation is linked to an increased risk of chronic diseases, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. Preclinical rodent and cell culture studies provide robust evidence that berries and their bioactive components have beneficial effects not only on inflammation, but also on biomarkers of many of these chronic diseases. Berries contain an abundance of bioactive compounds that have been shown to inhibit inflammation and to reduce reactive oxygen species. Therefore, berries represent an intriguing possibility for the treatment of obesity-induced inflammation and associated comorbidities. This review summarizes the anti-inflammatory properties of blackberries, blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries. This review highlights the anti-inflammatory mechanisms of berries and their bioactive components that have been elucidated through the use of preclinical models. The primary mechanisms mediating the anti-inflammatory effects of berries include a reduction in NF-κB signaling that may be secondary to reduced oxidative stress, a down-regulation of TLR4 signaling, and an increase in Nrf2.

Phytochemicals Determination, and Antioxidant, Antimicrobial, Anti-Inflammatory and Anticancer Activities of Blackberry Fruits

“…Therefore it might be possible that the anti-inflammatory activity demonstrated by blackberry extract was the result of the synergistic effects of various phytochemicals naturally present in blackberry fruits. In addition, the reduction in the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines makes blackberry an interesting source of bioactive compounds for the prevention and treatment of chronic inflammatory conditions [ 77 , 78 ] or COVID-19 disease [ 79 ], among others.…”

Impact of Obesity-Induced Inflammation on Cardiovascular Diseases (CVD)

“…A recent review highlighted that the primary mechanisms mediating the anti-inflammatory effects of berries include a reduction in nuclear factor kappa light chain enhancer of activated B cells. This signaling may be secondary to reduced oxidative stress, a downregulation of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) signaling, and an increase in nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2 (Nrf2) [ 69 ].…”

Blackberries and Mulberries: Berries with Significant Health-Promoting Properties

“…Inflammation is the immune system's reaction to potentially damaging stimuli such as infection or injury. In the presence of stressors, immune cells release inflammatory substances, such as inflammatory cytokines, including TNF-α and interleukins (IL)-6 and 10, leading to increased nitric oxide (NO) levels and prostaglandins via the catalysis of cyclooxygenase-2 (Cox2) and NF-κB pathways [45,134,135]. Blackberry freeze-dried powders are capable of reducing mRNA expression of NF-kB and COX-2 in the liver [136].…”